Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering, creamy, and comforting one-pan wonder – the Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet! If you’re looking for a quick yet delicious meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. With its mix of savory kielbasa sausage, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious creamy sauce, it’s a dish that will have your taste buds dancing and your loved ones asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for those hectic evenings.
• One-pan convenience: Say goodbye to piles of dishes! You’ll only need one skillet to create this delightful meal.
• Family-approved flavors: The creamy cheese sauce and tender kielbasa are sure to please picky eaters of all ages.
• Versatile ingredients: You can easily swap out veggies or proteins based on what you have on hand!
• Delicious leftovers: Enjoy the creamy goodness again! This dish keeps well in the fridge for lunch the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet. Each one plays an important role in creating that rich flavor you crave. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Skillet

• 8 ounces of penne pasta
• 2 cups (182 g) of fresh broccoli florets, quartered
• 13.9-ounce ring of kielbasa sausage, cut into bite-sized slices
• 1 1/2 cups (367.5 g) of whole milk
• 1 1/2 cups (169.5 g) of shredded mild cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1 small diced yellow onion (about 1/2 cup)
• 1 teaspoon of minced garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Try a different cheese: Experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a unique twist.

How to Make Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the penne pasta according to the package instructions. This step is crucial as it ensures your pasta is perfectly al dente. Remember, during the last two minutes of cooking, add those beautiful broccoli florets into the pot. This way, they will retain their vibrant color and crunch while cooking together with the pasta.

Step 2: Sear the Kielbasa

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Once melted, add in those sliced kielbasa pieces. Searing them until they’re lightly browned adds another layer of flavor that makes this dish so irresistible. Keep stirring occasionally for about five minutes; it’s worth it!

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Now it’s time to bring out those aromatic flavors! Stir in your diced onion and minced garlic into the skillet with the kielbasa. Cook them together for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant. This step lays down a delicious base for your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch with whole milk until fully combined—this helps thicken your sauce beautifully! Pour this mixture into your skillet and bring everything to a simmer while stirring continuously until it thickens up nicely (about 3-5 minutes). Trust me; your kitchen will smell divine at this point!

Step 5: Add Cheese

Once your sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and gradually mix in that glorious shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until it melts completely into a smooth and creamy sauce. It’s like wrapping everything up in comfort!

Step 6: Combine It All

Finally, add your cooked pasta and broccoli back into the skillet, tossing everything together until every piece is coated in that dreamy cheesy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste—don’t forget this final touch! Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, then serve hot straight from the skillet.

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet; it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Creating the perfect Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is all about the little details, so here are some pro tips to ensure your dish is a hit!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chopping your vegetables and measuring out ingredients before you start cooking can save time and make the cooking process smoother. This way, you can focus on enjoying the cooking experience without any last-minute rush.

• Choose Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely crunch to the dish. If you can, opt for vibrant green florets that are firm and free from yellowing, which indicates freshness.

• Adjust the Cheese: For a different flavor profile, try mixing up the types of cheese. A combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella or even pepper jack can add a delightful twist to your creamy sauce.

• Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Seasoning at every stage is key! Make sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper after adding each component. This ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your skillet by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrients. You can also throw in some cooked chicken or beans for added protein!

How to Serve Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

This dish is not just delicious; it’s also visually appealing! Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic feel or transfer it to a beautiful serving bowl for a more polished presentation. The creamy sauce glistens, making it hard to resist diving in!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of parmesan cheese on top offers an extra layer of savory flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover creamy sauce. It adds a nice crunch and pairs wonderfully with the richness of the skillet.
• Simple Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty skillet.
• Steamed Green Beans: Tender green beans drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice add a vibrant color and healthy crunch that balances out the creaminess.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized offer a subtle sweetness that complements the savory flavors perfectly while adding extra fiber to your meal.

Enjoy creating this delightful Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll impress everyone at your table in just 30 minutes!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is not only a delight to eat but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the dish cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Allow the skillet to cool fully before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make the Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made in advance, making it perfect for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions above for optimal freshness!

What can I substitute for kielbasa in this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet?

If you prefer a different protein, turkey sausage or chicken sausage are great alternatives that will still provide delicious flavors without compromising the dish’s integrity.

How can I make this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet healthier?

You can use whole grain pasta for added fiber, reduce the amount of cheese, or incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach into your skillet for extra nutrients.

Is there a dairy-free option for the creamy sauce?

Yes! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk and use dairy-free cheese to create a similar creamy texture without dairy.

How should I store leftovers from my Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions as outlined above.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to dive into this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet as I am! The combination of flavors and textures makes it truly special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to please. Enjoy making it and savor every delicious bite – happy cooking!